In this episode of the Voice2Change podcast by Jane Doe No More, host Jocelyn Maminta welcomes back licensed trauma therapist and Survivor Speak member Patti Ieraci for an honest conversation about navigating holiday stress and practicing self-care. Together, they explore why the holidays can be triggering for many, especially for trauma and sexual assault survivors. Patti shares actionable tools for coping, how to set healthy boundaries, and ways to honor feelings of grief and loneliness. 

This episode encourages listeners to embrace authenticity, check in with their emotional needs, and frame the new year not by what they want to accomplish, but by how they want to feel. Whether you find joy or difficulty in the festive season, this conversation offers comfort, hope, and empowering steps toward peace.

Topics Discussed:

• How the holidays can be a stressful time for many
• Common sources of holiday stress
• Holiday stress can trigger anxiety, depression, and past traumas
• The unique challenges sexual assault survivors face during family gatherings
• Navigating rooms with potential assailants
• The concept of “micro regulation” and practical self-care tools
• The importance of deep breathing to signal safety and bring oneself into the present moment
• Strategies for setting healthy boundaries
• Coping methods for grief and loneliness during the holidays

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